Vulcan the Liger Is Back Home at Jungle Island

According to Napoleon Dynamite, a liger is a cross between a lion and a tiger, bred for its skills in magic.

At least Napoleon was spot on about the first part. And as far as kitty witchcraft, well, anything is possible.

As it turns out, we have these potentially bewitching big cats right here in Miami. Vulcan, a 900-pound liger, has returned to his tour of duty after a little R&R, according to the folks at Jungle Island.

Tan and brown-striped and 12-feet long, Vulcan (who's around 12-years-old) is one of the largest cats in the world -- next to his even-bigger bro, Hercules. Hercules, who's currently residing elsewhere, has been recorded twice by the Guinness Book of World Records. The siblings came to Jungle Island together in June 2003.

"Vulcan took several months off to get some much needed R&R," said Jason Chatfield, vice president of zoological operations. "We're thrilled to have Vulcan back as he is a popular attraction at Jungle Island and was greatly missed."

Courtesy of Jungle Island

As far as genetics are concerned, ligers are a hybrid of a male lion and a female tiger. They're the world's largest cat species and have traits from both mom and pop. They're awesome swimmers, sociable animals, and there are only a few of 'em around the globe.

Courtesy of Jungle Island

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